I’m thrilled to share a new op-ed by GovernorsGary Herbert(R-UT) andJack Markell (D-DE) highlighting the need for greater Mandarin language learning in the US. “Mandarin Learning Is a Must,” published today in US News & World Report, underscores why America must prioritize its relationship with China – the world’s second largest economy – and prepare its next generation to manage the bilateral relationship:

“Tomorrow’s leaders must be able to compete, work and thrive in a globalized world with diverse, multilingual consumers and economies in which China and the U.S. will continue to be major players. By offering American students early education opportunities to learn Mandarin, we can prepare them for careers in a world and workplace in which our country’s bilateral ties play a consequential role.”

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The governors also call on their fellow states to join them in supporting US-China Strong and our1 Million Stronginitiative to increase Mandarin language learning opportunities in the US. “Chinese proficiency will provide American students with more opportunities as they work to enhance our relationship with a powerful economy, which is also the destination for more than $110 billion in U.S. exports,” they write.

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Utah and Delaware are two of our country’s leaders in promoting Mandarin language learning: Utah has the nation’s highest percentage of students learning Mandarin in school, and Delaware’s student enrollment in Chinese immersion programs has increased seven-fold in four years. I can’t thank Governors Markell and Herbert enough for helping to pave the way for a stronger US-China relationship, and I look forward to seeing Mandarin opportunities grow in Utah, Delaware and throughout the country.

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The US-China Strong Foundation is a nonprofit organization that seeks to strengthen US-China relations by investing in a new generation of leaders who have the knowledge and skills to engage with China.